1998 Ford Probe vs. 2004 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2004 Toyota MR2 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Probe would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota MR2 (142 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Probe weights approximately 165 kg more than 2004 Toyota MR2.
Because 2004 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Probe, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2004 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Probe | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1250 mm |
